Executive Search for a Senior Director of Operations

CASE STUDY

Senior Director of Operations for an Independent, Assisted Living, and Memory Care Provider in Western US

SCENARIO
LM Hurley & Associates conducted an exclusive engagement search for a Senior Director of Operations for a client who has developed, owns, and operates ten assisted living and memory care communities in the Western US.

​For over 25+ years, they have built their brand centered on purposeful living and a unique holistic approach built on innovation, collaboration, and a high-performance culture. This was a newly created position developed to work from the corporate headquarters and manage field operations to provide support for the CEO.

SOLUTION
When Highgate Senior Living engaged our services, Lauren Hurley had already conducted several searches for this client, including a VP of Operations, a Corporate Sales Director, a Digital Marketing Director, an Executive Director, and a Community Sales Manager. Although she knew this client and their culture well, she invested time in consulting with the CEO and developing a job description and a search specification that clarified their needs, culture, and high-quality standards. 

We launched a two-pronged strategy, with our primary effort focused within a commutable radius of the client’s headquarters, plus a state-wide search. This was not a remote position so relocation was an option. The goal was to identify a visionary and results-oriented Senior Director of Operations to join our client’s team in this pivotal role, reporting directly to the CEO and supporting in crafting strategic direction, leading operational excellence, and driving resident and team member satisfaction to new heights.  

Matching the client's vision for the community's new leader also called for:

• A bachelor’s degree in an applicable field or equivalent experience equips you with the knowledge to excel in this senior leadership role. 
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior management role, ideally with Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care environments, understanding the nuances of each.
• Must have multi-site management experience and a track record of successful operations.
• Work from their corporate headquarters and be ready to travel as needed.

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RESULTS
Of the 65 prospects we contacted and screened, we extensively interviewed 7 candidates. After evaluation, we narrowed the field to the three candidates we presented to the organization. Our client selected all three individuals to interview and ultimately chose a candidate who exceeded the client's specifications and did not require relocation. 

An offer was extended and accepted within 62 days of engagement. The Senior Director of Operations joined the organization with over four years as a Regional Vice President, where she oversaw a staff of 290 employees and directly supervised 11 General Managers and 11 Sales Directors. The candidate has a Master’s degree in Business Administration and other valuable certifications such including Portfolio Supervisor and Certified Tax Preparer.